Pettinger hopes Moose tryout leads back to NHL

Matt Pettinger got tired of waiting for the phone to ring and has literally taken matters into his own hands -- and legs.

The 28-year-old forward with 413 games of NHL experience on his resume, has joined the Manitoba Moose on a 25-game pro tryout offer and will suit up tomorrow night against the Lake Erie Monsters.

"It was frustrating, July 1 came and we sat around and waited for something and nothing really presented itself," said Pettinger, who has been skating with the Victoria Salmon Kings of the ECHL for the past two weeks. "We just felt this was the best option, to get out and play games. It's a good situation for both. I can help out the team and it gives myself exposure to try and find an NHL job."

Versatile

Pettinger had eight goals and 15 points in 59 games with the Tampa Bay Lightning last season.

The versatile forward, who can play centre or wing, also made a strong impression by scoring three goals in two games during a brief demotion to the Moose before he was claimed on re-entry waivers by the Lightning on Oct. 21, 2008.

"It's a first-class organization here, it's like you're in the NHL," said Pettinger, who was originally selected in the second round (43rd overall) by the Washington Capitals of the 2000 NHL Entry Draft. "I'm going to see how things play out and explore all options. I don't know how long I'll be here.

Opportunity

"I know I'm going to get an opportunity here. You earn your ice here and it's a good hockey league. I'm not just going to play 50% of my game and expect to do well. It's the same attitude I had last year. I went out, played hard and was successful and got the call back. Hopefully, it's along similar lines (this time)."

Moose head coach Scott Arniel believes Pettinger will fit right into the mix.

"He's a veteran guy and he played well for us when he came in here last year," said Arniel. "He's a real good example for our young guys. I'm not really sure why he's not in the NHL, but he's an NHL player."

As Pettinger joins the Moose, the team said good-bye for the time being to forward Michael Grabner, who was recalled by the Canucks yesterday and is poised to make his NHL debut against the Calgary Flames tomorrow night at Pengrowth Saddledome.

Grabner is expected start on the top line with Henrik Sedin and former Moose Alexandre Burrows.

"I'm playing with great players, I've got to take the chance and try to score some goals," Grabner told reporters in Vancouver yesterday. "It's up to me now."

After a disappointing training camp with the Canucks, Grabner has four goals and six points in five AHL games this season and won the open audition to replace Daniel Sedin, who is expected to be out for four-to-six weeks.

"It's nice to see him get a chance, he has earned it," said Arniel. "We talked a bit about how nervous he was during camp and how he tried to do too much and worried about too many things instead of going out and doing what he does best, using his speed, his shot and his offensive skills.

"He could be up there as long as Daniel is out or maybe he can stay the rest of the year. That's all up to him. Hopefully, he makes the most of his opportunity."

Moose captain Mike Keane believes Grabner has the tools to succeed.

"He has big league skill and big league talent, so it's a matter of him doing the right things to make him an NHL player," said Keane. "He's honed his skills down here. Obviously, he has big league speed. Everyone knows that. It's up to him to make the adjustment."